Dhaka: The UN Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) will probe abuse allegations against Rohingyas, including those by the Arakan Army, a rebel group controlling 80 percent of Rakhine state. ‘We have the mandate to investigate abuses committed by any group or force in Myanmar, whether it’s the Arakan Army, the Myanmar military, or any other entity,’ said Head of IIMM Nicholas Koumjian today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Koumjian made comments while speaking to reporters following a meeting with Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain at the foreign ministry. ‘If Rohingyas or anyone else are victims of abuse, we will investigate. We are collecting evidence for this purpose,’ he added in response to a question. When asked how investigations would proceed without access to Myanmar, Koumjian explained that evidence is being collected through modern technology, social media, and interviews with victims, despite the lack of physical access to the country.
He stressed that the UN mechanism remains committed to ensuring accountability and justice for international crimes committed against Rohingyas in Myanmar. Expressing gratitude to the Bangladesh government for its support, he acknowledged that the situation in Myanmar has deteriorated. Despite these challenges, he said that efforts to gather evidence of abuses continue.
Later in a press release, the foreign ministry stated that during the meeting, the foreign adviser appreciated the IIMM’s ongoing effort to ensure justice and accountability for the victims of serious international crimes in Myanmar. The adviser mentioned that Bangladesh has been generously hosting the Rohingyas, but the international community has failed to create pressure on Myanmar for the return of these people. They also discussed the recent developments in the Rakhine State. As an accountability actor, IIMM head conveyed the mechanism’s eagerness to play a constructive role in the upcoming High-Level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar to be held in the UN.